Harrison Bergeron

Absolute equality guarantees that nobody is stronger, smarter, or better-looking than anyone else. Individuals of exceptional talents and traits wear government-mandated handicaps (physical harnesses, mental radios, masks) to enforce equality across the population. This new political and social landscape provides the background for the events of "Harrison Bergeron."

"Harrison Bergeron" takes place in the living room of George and Hazel Bergeron, a couple living in the United States under this new totalitarian regime. For the entire duration of the story, the two are sitting on their sofa and watching television. This gives a veneer of normalcy to the happenings on the screen—their son’s failed rebellion—despite the deep political and personal consequences for the couple. The living room setting also contributes to the unsettling mood of the story, defining a stark contrast between Harrison’s uprising and the Bergerons’ mindless viewing.

Moreover, the setting of Harrison’s rebellion on the television screen gives a dramatic air to his actions. Importantly, this uprising is a public one, viewed by a great portion of the population. It interrupts a ballet recital, as well, heightening the sensational quality of the scene and marking it as a display (and a performance) of Harrison’s exceptional attributes.